German Chancellor Merz endorses Franco-German nuclear deterrence cooperation

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz clarified on Thursday that the growing Franco‑German security partnership is not intended to replace NATO’s nuclear umbrella. Speaking at a press conference in Berlin, he stressed that the two European powers are expanding their cooperation on defense and crisis management while remaining fully committed to the collective deterrence framework that NATO provides.

Scholz explained that the Franco‑German initiative focuses on joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and the development of advanced conventional capabilities. He noted that the partnership does not alter the existing NATO nuclear sharing arrangements, which rely on the United States’ nuclear deterrent. The Chancellor emphasized that any enhancements to European defense are meant to complement, not supplant, the alliance’s nuclear deterrence posture.

In closing, Scholz reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering support for NATO and its role in European security. He urged that the alliance continues to be the central pillar of transatlantic defense, while encouraging further collaboration between France and Germany to strengthen conventional forces and crisis response capabilities.